And say, finally, whether peace is best preserved by…
“And say, finally, whether peace is best preserved by giving energy to the government or information to the people. This last is the most legitimate engine of government. Educate and inform the whole mass of people. Enable them to see that it is their interest to preserve peace and order, and they will preserve them. And it requires no very high degree of education to convince them of this. They are the only sure reliance for the preservation of our liberty.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Jefferson argues that an informed citizenry, not a powerful government, safeguards peace and liberty.
In simple terms: Educated people keep peace.
Key Takeaway
Promote public education and transparent information.
Themes
democracy
peace
citizen empowerment
education
liberty
Mood
thoughtful
optimistic
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- voting
- community meetings
- public broadcasting
- civic curricula
Key Concepts
Republicanism
civic responsibility
information theory
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we ensure information is accurate?
- What barriers prevent widespread civic education?
A Different Perspective
Assumes all citizens will act rationally when informed.